Top 10 Tips to Get a Patent Attorney Job at a Law Firm
A patent attorney specializes in intellectual property law pertaining to the protection of an invention by preparing and filing patent applications. Patent attorneys also represent clients in the courtroom in matters of infringement, licensing or reexamination. In order to represent their clients as well as they possibly can, patent lawyers also specialize in certain fields of expertise. Are you a training or graduate patent lawyer? Are you looking for a job in a law firm? Here are top ten tips from Tony Guo, an expert in digital marketing at Runrex, who is also a trained Patent, Trademark and Immigration Attorney.
Pass Your Examinations
If you are still a student, this point is a lifeline that you should definitely hang on to. You need to pass all your examinations. In fact, you have to make sure that you aim for the best scores. This also applies to your marks before college. Having an excellent score is one of the easiest ways of securing a job after graduation. The firms will actually contact you if you are brilliant.
Follow the Instructions
You will probably be one of the hundred applicants that send their application for a patent attorney position. One of the best ways of avoiding disqualification is following the instructions provided. If the advertisement specifies that you should send a cover letter, attach a CV and necessary documentation to prove that you are a patent attorney, ensure that you do it. If there are questions attached, answer all questions appropriately before sending your application. Following instructions is a simple, yet sometimes ignored skills, that could get you a job.
Keep Your Information Relevant to the Application
More often than not, an advertisement for an open patent attorney position at a law firm will include specific details for the application process. Include only what is required, because if the firm is interested in hiring you, it will contact you. Also remember that the firm is interested in your legal experiences, and therefore irrelevant information about trips and holidays should be eliminated. Instead, include more information that will highlight your knowledge as a patent attorney.
Apply to Many Law Firms
Always remember not to put your eggs in one basket. Whether you are applying to your dream law firm or a referral, or a cousin you know at a certain firm, it is always wise to keep your options open. An opportunity you were promised could disappear, and you should secure your career by emailing your resume to several hiring firms.
Networking is Important
Networking is a great way of securing a job. You need to stay in touch with classmates from college, lecturers, and mentors. These people are crucial in securing a job because they will give you a call whenever an opportunity arises, guide you during the application process, and vouch for you during meetings. It is wise to start creating networks while still in school because conferences and events that allow you to interact with potential employers are facilitated by the school.
Do Your Homework About the Firm
Employers are impressed by applicants who have studied the firm, and demonstrate their knowledge and skills in their application and during an interview. It is important not to seem too desperate for a job, even if you have been on the hunt for a while. Be confident and let the interviewer know that you are not only interested in having a job, but working for that firm.
Understand Your Role at the Law Firm
Every interviewer will tell you that it is always enjoyable and impressive to interact with a candidate that understands their role in a firm. Applying for a job position means that you believe in your skills, experience, and are asking the firm to rely on you. Therefore, you should always have the answer to the question, “Why should we hire you?”. Understand your role at the firm, and clearly explain how you fit into that role based on your skills.
Improve Your Language
Good attorneys should always have clear, articulate, and correct language. Master your English, learn how to write it, read it, and use it appropriately. A language is a powerful tool that you can use to get through the application process and ace the interview. Eloquent speakers are admirable, and a powerful asset to any law firm. Strive to be the eloquent, yet persuasive patent attorney every time you apply for a job.
Read, Read, Read
You may have graduated, and passed your bar examinations, but that is no reason for you to stop reading. Given the voluminous, complex, and also changing nature of law, reading is vital. You have to constantly refresh the information you have, and improve your ideas, stay updated with changes in patent law, and in general law. Reading will also prepare you for any questions an interviewer might throw your way.
Keep Your Online Profile Neat
As expected, no one wants to hire a scandalous patent attorney, and it is, therefore, your responsibility to clean up your online profiles. Avoid strong, rude, and implicating language, pictures that are subject to wrong discussions, and videos that could repulse your potential employers. If possible, try and keep your private life to yourself to avoid embarrassing questions during interviews.